ED summons former Kerala CM Vijayan in money-laundering probe

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has summoned former Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan for questioning on October 23 as part of an ongoing money-laundering investigation. The summons relates to allegations connected with the Civil Supplies Mercantile Limited (CMRL) case, which has drawn significant scrutiny from federal agencies.

The ED has registered two separate Enforcement Case Information Reports (ECIRs) under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act against Vijayan. The investigation also encompasses his daughter T. Veena and son-in-law Mohamed Riyas, a former Kerala minister, according to agency officials.

The development marks an escalation in the ED's probe into the matter, which had previously been under investigation by other law enforcement agencies. The questioning of the former chief minister represents a significant step in the federal agency's examination of the alleged financial irregularities.

Vijayan, who served as Kerala's chief minister for two consecutive terms until 2021, has maintained his innocence in the matter. The investigation is ongoing, with officials indicating that further developments are expected as the ED continues its examination of the case.